City to Host Hands on Exchange with University of Akron

Akron, Ohio, November 13, 2017—The City of Akron is inviting the public to attend an open house meeting to discuss the upcoming redesign of East Exchange Street between Arc Drive and Fountain Street. Hands On Exchange is a Tactical Urbanism project that will examine alternatives for transforming Exchange Street into a Complete Street—one that is designed for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Tactical Urbanism is an approach to neighborhood building that uses short-term, low-cost, and scalable interventions and policies to catalyze long term change. The event is made possible through the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

“We have a unique opportunity to transform a key corridor in our city with this innovative project,” Mayor Dan Horrigan said. “This spring, we will utilize temporary materials to test ideas for a ‘better Exchange Street.’ This will allow us to gather feedback from residents, students, businesses, pedestrians, and partner agencies to then permanently design Exchange Street into a more functional and valuable corridor that truly meets the needs of all users.”

“An inviting, healthy and safe Exchange Street is vital for student life and our greater community,” University of Akron President Matthew J. Wilson said. “We are proud to partner with the City of Akron and the Knight Foundation on ways to continue to improve this corridor for all users.”

WHAT: Hands on Exchange – public open house event re: Exchange Street redesign

“The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by ODOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 11, 2015, and executed by FHWA and ODOT.”

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For further information, contact:
Ellen Lander Nischt
Press Secretary / Assistant Director of Law
166 South High Street
Suite 200